At the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, Karnam Malleswari, a remarkable weightlifter, carved out her place in both Olympic and Indian sports history. She lifted 110 kg in the “snatch” and 130 kg in the “clean and jerk,” totaling 240 kg, which earned her the bronze medal and made her the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal.
Historic Achievement:
- Event: Women’s 69 kg Weightlifting
- Olympics: 2000 Sydney Olympics
- Medal: Bronze
Significance of Her Win:
Malleswari’s bronze medal was a significant milestone for Indian sports, inspiring future generations of female athletes throughout the country. This victory was particularly remarkable, as it was India’s first Olympic medal in individual events after a 44-year gap.
Major Achievements:
- World Championships:
- Won the World Weightlifting Championships in 1994 and 1995.
- Secured multiple gold and silver medals in her career.
- Arjuna Award: 1994 for her contribution to Indian sports.
- Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award: India’s highest sporting honor in 1999.
- Padma Shri: Awarded in 1999 for her outstanding contribution to Indian sports.